Hey friends! So, I wanted to share a personal story about something I discovered during my postpartum journey after having my second little one. During my check-up, I was informed that I had a weak pelvic floor, along with a rectal prolapse (yikes, right?). My midwife recommended that I try Pilates or consult a pelvic floor therapist. But, with two young kids running around, I just didn’t have the time. Plus, I wasn’t experiencing any major symptoms, so I thought it wasn’t a big deal.
Fast forward five years, and things took a turn. I started feeling pressure and pain in my rectal area, especially during that time of the month. But the worst part? I began to dread intimacy because of the pain. Not cool!
Determined to get to the bottom of this, I dove into research about rectal prolapses and the pelvic floor. I began a dedicated exercise routine focusing on these issues, and within a few months, things started to improve—thank goodness!
One thing I learned is that taking care of your pelvic floor requires a holistic approach. Your pelvic floor muscles support your bladder, uterus, and rectum, and various factors can impact their strength. For example, straining during bowel movements, heavy lifting, and even certain exercises like jumping can exacerbate problems.
The Impact of the Pandemic on Pelvic Floor Health
Now, let’s talk about how the pandemic has thrown a wrench in our pelvic floor health. With many of us spending long hours sitting at a computer, it’s taking a toll. According to The Washington Post, being more sedentary can tighten our pelvic floor muscles, while stress can lead to overall body tension, including in our pelvic areas.
Experts have noted an uptick in pelvic floor issues since the pandemic began. Alicia Matthews, a pelvic floor physical therapist, mentioned that the combination of stress and prolonged sitting has significantly impacted symptoms.
Luckily, things are looking a bit brighter as we’re becoming more active again, even if the stress of the pandemic isn’t completely gone (hello, winter surge!). If you find yourself sitting all day like I do, it’s essential to practice good posture, change up your positions, and take breaks to stretch and move around.
Recognizing Pelvic Floor Issues
It’s also important to recognize that some issues we might dismiss as “normal,” especially after childbirth, really aren’t. Signs of pelvic floor problems include leaking urine, constipation, pelvic pain, and even lower back pain. Many women think it’s just part of being a mom or aging, but it doesn’t have to be that way!
If you’re experiencing signs of pelvic floor damage or prolapse, definitely talk to a doctor or a pelvic floor therapist. There are also safe exercise programs out there that can help. Plus, it’s worth considering your daily habits, like sitting too much and dealing with stress, which could be contributing to your symptoms.
And let’s be honest, if you’re dealing with pelvic floor issues, working on them is totally worth your time. As busy moms, we often neglect our health, but it’s essential to prioritize our well-being. You can’t pour from an empty cup, and you deserve to feel strong and confident in your body—without worrying about leaking when you sneeze or laugh!
Resources for Further Support
If you’re interested in exploring at-home insemination options, check out Make a Mom for a unique solution and learn how it works through this resource. You can also join the Make a Mom Facebook group for support. And for those considering artificial insemination, you might want to look into Cryobaby’s intracervical insemination kit, a trusted option for at-home procedures. For more insights, this blog post is a great read! And lastly, check out Rmany’s blog for additional pregnancy and home insemination resources.
Summary
The pandemic has contributed to increased pelvic floor issues due to prolonged sitting, stress, and lifestyle changes. It’s crucial to recognize the signs of pelvic floor problems, prioritize your health, and consider safe exercise routines. Don’t hesitate to seek professional help if you experience symptoms, and remember, investing in your well-being is worth it.
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